Many women face various ailments during their menstrual cycle, including abdominal pain, bloating, and heavy bleeding. Among these inconveniences is also diarrhea during menstruation. Why is this phenomenon so common and how can we fix it?
What is the relationship between periods and diarrhea?
Diarrhea associated with periods is a very common symptom for many women. It often results from the action of prostaglandins, chemicals that are released by the body during menstruation to help shed the uterine lining.
Prostaglandins also have an effect on intestinal muscles : by wanting to expel the uterine lining, they also cause an acceleration of intestinal transit, thus leading to diarrhea. The presence of a high concentration of prostaglandins in the body therefore remains the main cause of diarrhea during menstruation.
In addition to prostaglandins, fluctuations in levels estrogen and progesterone play a crucial role in the menstrual cycle. These hormones can influence intestinal motility, which can sometimes lead to symptoms of diarrhea. Understanding these hormonal variations can help anticipate and manage gastrointestinal discomfort during periods.
Other factors that can cause diarrhea during periods
- The stress : Many studies have shown that stress can worsen symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders and cause diarrhea during periods.
- Food: Eating fatty, spicy or irritating foods can also lead to gastrointestinal problems and cause diarrhea during menstruation.
How to relieve diarrhea during periods?
Although diarrhea during your period can be annoying, there are several solutions to deal with it and reduce the discomfort. Here are some of the methods to reduce and stop diarrhea:
Adjust your diet
During the days of your period, adapting your diet can help reduce the frequency and intensity of symptoms linked to accelerated intestinal transit. It is recommended :
- Eat foods high in soluble fiber, such as oats, bananas, and cooked skinless potatoes.
- Avoid foods that irritate the digestive system, such as spicy foods and caffeinated drinks
- Drink enough water to avoid dehydration
Adapted Menu Ideas
During your period, eat light, nutritious meals. For example, a bowl of quinoa with steamed vegetables and a grilled fish fillet can be both stomach-soothing and nutrient-rich. Soups and broths are also great options for maintaining proper hydration while still being easy to digest.
Incorporating foods rich in probiotics, such as natural yogurt or kefir, can help maintain a healthy balance of intestinal flora. These foods help support digestive health and may ease symptoms of diarrhea.
Taking medications and supplements
Several medications and supplements can help relieve diarrhea during periods:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help reduce the production of prostaglandins and thus alleviate diarrhea.
- Le charcoal, a supplement available at pharmacies, can help absorb excess gas and fluids in the intestine, soothing diarrhea
However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication or supplement, to avoid unwanted side effects.
Practicing relaxing activities
Since stress can be a contributing factor to diarrhea during periods, practicing relaxing activities such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can be beneficial in reducing the discomfort associated with digestive disorders.
Alternative therapies
Methods like acupuncture or aromatherapy can offer natural relief. Acupuncture, in particular, is known for its effectiveness in managing stress and hormonal imbalances, while aromatherapy can help create a relaxing environment.
Advice on healthy living
Quality sleep and regular physical activity are essential for good digestive health. Practicing light exercises such as walking or yoga can help reduce stress and improve intestinal transit.
Associated Medical Conditions
- Gastrointestinal Disorders and Periods: Women suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may experience an exacerbation of their symptoms during menstruation. It is important to follow a suitable diet and consult a doctor for specific treatment.
- Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can interact with the menstrual cycle. Women with these conditions should discuss strategies with their doctor to manage both their inflammatory disease and menstrual symptoms.
Tips to avoid diarrhea during periods
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Choose foods that are easy to digest like soups, cooked vegetables, and whole grains.
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Drink plenty of water and opt for gentle herbal teas to maintain good hydration.
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Limit the consumption of spicy, fatty foods and dairy products.
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Do light activities like walking, yoga, or Pilates.
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Adopt meditation or deep breathing to manage stress.
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Get enough sleep to help regulate hormones and reduce stress.
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Keep a diary to anticipate the start of your period and adjust your routine accordingly.
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If symptoms persist or are severe, seek advice from a healthcare professional.
An individual approach to finding the right solution for yourself
In some situations, diarrhea during periods can be a sign of an underlying health problem. If diarrhea persists despite efforts to alleviate the symptoms, a medical consultation is recommended to determine the exact cause of the problem and establish an appropriate treatment plan.
Ultimately, it is essential to find the strategies that work best for your own body and its needs in order to deal with diarrhea during periods. It may take a trial to identify the best solutions, but with patience and perseverance, it is possible to experience this period with greater comfort and tranquility.
